This was on the cover of American Rifleman, April 1960. It is identified as being produced by A. Mohiev of Liege, 1770-1780, an early fowling piece.




I believe this may show what can be considered as pattern welded damascus. In 1771 Jean Jacques Perret published "L'Art du Coutelier". In it he describes the process of twisting ribbons. Many of the tools shown resemble what are later seen in the damascus barrel shops. So are we looking at one of the earliest examples? Without seeing the full barrel, it is difficult to tell. Unfortunately, there is no other information about this piece.

Pete

http://www.damascus-barrels.com/Movie.html